‘More than just a car show’: Old Mill Classic Cruz donates $10,000 to Central Oregon veteran and first responder support nonprofit
KTVZ – News Team
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The first annual Old Mill Classic Cruz Car Show took place on July 19th in Bend’s Old Mill District and was able to raise $10,000 to donate to Battle Buddies of Central Oregon.
According to a spokesperson from Old Mill Classic Cruz, more than 200 car enthusiasts came together to showcase their vehicles, and the money for Battle Buddies of Central Oregon was raised through sponsors, registration fees, and other donations.
Read the full press release below:
“Following a successful summer event, the Old Mill Classic Cruz is proud to announce a donation of $10,000 directly to Battle Buddies of Central Oregon to support its mission to support the wellbeing of veterans and first responders by providing canine companionship and training through their K9 Training for Heroes program.
The funds were raised during the first-time annual car show held on July 19, 2025 and alongside the beautiful Deschutes River in The Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon.
The event brought together over 200 car enthusiasts and community members to showcase a wide range of stock and custom classic vehicles. A portion of every sponsorship, registration fee, and donation contributed to the total amount raised for this local charity event.
“We are grateful to our 38 sponsors, to the 200+ participants who attended, to donors, and to several volunteers that helped make this donation possible”, said David Boynton. “This is more than just a car show, it’s about honoring those who’ve served, connecting the community, and showcasing the beauty of the Bend car culture in an unforgettable way. Our community’s passion for cars has translated into real tangible support for Battle Buddies and we are thrilled to help them continue their important work.”This donation will allow Battle Buddies of Central Oregon to provide training, adoption, and medical assistance to the special Buddies they support. “The generosity of the local car community is truly inspiring. This donation will make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve and we are thankful for their support” said Kristine Olson, Executive Director.
The Old Mill Classic Cruz car show is an annual community event dedicated t o bringing car lovers together for a day of appreciation for classic and unique automobiles. It also serves as a platform for supporting Veterans causes and giving back to the community in the future.
Battle Buddies of Central Oregon is a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization, an all-volunteer staff of patriotic citizens dedicated to preventing veteran and first responder suicide. Their mission is to prevent veteran and first responder suicide through canine companionship, training, and their goal is to provide professional canine obedience training in preparation for the canine good citizen test. For more information, visit their website at battlebuddiesco.org.”